Campbell in England squad
Sunderland striker Fraizer Campbell is a shock call-up in Stuart Pearce's England squad to face Holland at Wembley next Wednesday.
The 24-year-old came back into the Black Cats side this season after nearly 18 months out injured and has made an immediate impact with two goals under new boss Martin O'Neill.
The former Manchester United man joins Wayne Rooney, Darren Bent, Danny Welbeck and Daniel Sturridge as the strikers in a youthful 25-man squad that also includes Manchester City full-back Micah Richards.
Pearce, who has managed Campbell at under-21 level, said: "I know Fraizer quite well because the heads-up I've got is I've taken the majority of these boys to under-21 tournaments. He was fantastic on the road with us at under-21 level.
"He's come back into the Sunderland side and given them a real lift. I spoke to Martin about him at a game a few days ago and he spoke very highly of him. He's worked fantastically well to get back from the injury he's had. He's an exciting talent. I think he'll thrive by coming into this environment."
Pearce has wasted no time in bringing Richards back into the fold following his exile under Fabio Capello, although with Kyle Walker and Glen Johnson also included it is not known exactly how he fits into the plans.
Neither Rio Ferdinand nor Frank Lampard have been selected, although the presence of Steven Gerrard suggests the Liverpool man will gain the captain's armband, sensationally stripped from John Terry earlier this month.
In addition to Campbell, the only other uncapped member of his squad is Manchester United's Tom Cleverley. Pearce has been impressed with the way Cleverley, who has also recently returned from injury, has adapted to a central role.
"He started the season fantastically well," said Pearce.
"It's been a bit stop-start with injuries. He's come back into he United side, they've played him in a more central role, which is something I didn't do at under-21 level, and he's flourished. They (United) talk highly of him. He's got a big future. Just being around the senior set-up will stand him in good stead."
